Abbott Labs gains FDA approval for 5 minute coronavirus detection test....
Author Interviews, COVID -19 Coronavirus, Lung Cancer / 27.03.2020
Potential Increased Risk of COVID-19 to Lung Cancer Patients
MedicalResearch.com Interview with:
[caption id="attachment_53664" align="alignleft" width="183"] Dr. Moore[/caption]
Dr. Amy C. Moore PhD
Director of Science and Research
GO2 Foundation for Lung Cancer
MedicalResearch.com: What is the mission of the GO2 Foundation for Lung Cancer?
Response: GO2 Foundation for Lung Cancer’s mission is to transform survivorship by saving, extending, and improving the lives of those vulnerable, at risk, and diagnosed with lung cancer.
Dr. Moore[/caption]
Dr. Amy C. Moore PhD
Director of Science and Research
GO2 Foundation for Lung Cancer
MedicalResearch.com: What is the mission of the GO2 Foundation for Lung Cancer?
Response: GO2 Foundation for Lung Cancer’s mission is to transform survivorship by saving, extending, and improving the lives of those vulnerable, at risk, and diagnosed with lung cancer.
Author Interviews, COVID -19 Coronavirus, Duke / 27.03.2020
Little Evidence COVID-19 Can Be Spread Through Tears
MedicalResearch.com Interview with:
[caption id="attachment_53658" align="alignleft" width="200"]
Dr. Agrawal[/caption]
Dr. Rupesh Agrawal, MD
Associate Professor
Senior Consultant Ophthalmologist
Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore
MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study?
Wasn't Dr Li Wenliang, the Chinese physician who first alerted his community of coronavirus an opthalmologist, with possible exposure to tears from this surgical work with glaucoma patients?
Response: Since the start of the pandemic, there have been multiple reports which suggested the transmission of SARS-CoV-2 via ocular fluids. As ophthalmologists, we come into close contact with tears on a daily basis during our clinical examination. Furthermore, many equipment in the clinic like the Goldman tonometer come into direct contact with such ocular fluids, providing a channel for viral transmission. The evidence, as of date, were mainly anecdotal reports included in newspaper articles and media interviews. We wanted to know if the virus can truly be found in tears, so we decided to embark on this study.
Dr. Agrawal[/caption]
Dr. Rupesh Agrawal, MD
Associate Professor
Senior Consultant Ophthalmologist
Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore
MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study?
Wasn't Dr Li Wenliang, the Chinese physician who first alerted his community of coronavirus an opthalmologist, with possible exposure to tears from this surgical work with glaucoma patients?
Response: Since the start of the pandemic, there have been multiple reports which suggested the transmission of SARS-CoV-2 via ocular fluids. As ophthalmologists, we come into close contact with tears on a daily basis during our clinical examination. Furthermore, many equipment in the clinic like the Goldman tonometer come into direct contact with such ocular fluids, providing a channel for viral transmission. The evidence, as of date, were mainly anecdotal reports included in newspaper articles and media interviews. We wanted to know if the virus can truly be found in tears, so we decided to embark on this study.
Author Interviews, Mental Health Research, Pediatrics / 26.03.2020
Kangaroo Care Linked to Better Infant Brain Development
MedicalResearch.com Interview with:
[caption id="attachment_53647" align="alignleft" width="97"]
Dr. Hardin[/caption]
Jillian Hardin, Ph.D.
Developmental Psychophysiology Lab
Florida Atlantic University
MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study?
Response: Most Kangaroo Care (KC) research examines the procedure’s positive physiological and psychological developmental effects on preterm infants as these infants are separated from their mothers before the end of gestation. However, the aim of our study was to determine whether kangaroo care parent-training and implementation with non-vulnerable, full-term infants provided developmental neurophysiological benefits.
Dr. Hardin[/caption]
Jillian Hardin, Ph.D.
Developmental Psychophysiology Lab
Florida Atlantic University
MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study?
Response: Most Kangaroo Care (KC) research examines the procedure’s positive physiological and psychological developmental effects on preterm infants as these infants are separated from their mothers before the end of gestation. However, the aim of our study was to determine whether kangaroo care parent-training and implementation with non-vulnerable, full-term infants provided developmental neurophysiological benefits.
Author Interviews, Biomarkers, Diabetes, Diabetes Care, Johns Hopkins / 26.03.2020
Biomarker hsTroponin Predictive of Mortality Risk in Older Diabetics
MedicalResearch.com Interview with:
[caption id="attachment_53641" align="alignleft" width="150"] Olive Tang[/caption]
Olive Tang, MD/PhD Student
Johns Hopkins School of Medicine
[caption id="attachment_53642" align="alignleft" width="150"]
Dr. Selvin[/caption]
Elizabeth Selvin, PhD, MPH
Professor of Epidemiology & Medicine
Director, Cardiovascular and Clinical Epidemiology
Department of Epidemiology
Welch Center for Prevention, Epidemiology and Clinical Research and the
Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health
MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study?
Response: The best approach to diabetes management in older adults is unclear. A new blood test called high-sensitivity troponin can detect damage to the heart, even in people without any signs or symptoms of heart disease.
Olive Tang[/caption]
Olive Tang, MD/PhD Student
Johns Hopkins School of Medicine
[caption id="attachment_53642" align="alignleft" width="150"] Dr. Selvin[/caption]
Elizabeth Selvin, PhD, MPH
Professor of Epidemiology & Medicine
Director, Cardiovascular and Clinical Epidemiology
Department of Epidemiology
Welch Center for Prevention, Epidemiology and Clinical Research and the
Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health
MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study?
Response: The best approach to diabetes management in older adults is unclear. A new blood test called high-sensitivity troponin can detect damage to the heart, even in people without any signs or symptoms of heart disease.
Author Interviews, Melanoma, NYU/NYMC / 25.03.2020
New Treatments Linked to Drop in Mortality from Malignant Melanoma
MedicalResearch.com Interview with:
[caption id="attachment_53633" align="alignleft" width="200"] Dr. Polsky[/caption]
David Polsky, MD, PhD
Professor of Dermatology and Pathology
Alfred W. Kopf MD, Professor of Dermatologic Oncology
Director, Pigmented Lesion Section
The Ronald O. Perelman Department of Dermatology
New York University Grossman School of Medicine
Perlmutter Cancer Center
Joan and Joel Smilow Research Center
New York, NY 10016
MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study?
Response: The background for the study was to determine the extent to which new treatments for metastatic melanoma were impacting melanoma mortality rates for the United States population. Multiple clinical trials have demonstrated that several new agents were highly effective at prolonging survival.
These treatments belong to two different groups of medications: those targeting the biological pathway activated by mutation in the BRAF oncogene, which occurs in just under 50% of metastatic melanomas; and those targeting the immune system, called checkpoint inhibitors. These drugs prevent melanomas from suppressing the immune response to the tumors. Ten treatments were approved beginning in 2011, including six treatments between 2011 and 2014. We examined mortality rates between 1986 and 2016, prior to and after FDA approval of these agents.
Dr. Polsky[/caption]
David Polsky, MD, PhD
Professor of Dermatology and Pathology
Alfred W. Kopf MD, Professor of Dermatologic Oncology
Director, Pigmented Lesion Section
The Ronald O. Perelman Department of Dermatology
New York University Grossman School of Medicine
Perlmutter Cancer Center
Joan and Joel Smilow Research Center
New York, NY 10016
MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study?
Response: The background for the study was to determine the extent to which new treatments for metastatic melanoma were impacting melanoma mortality rates for the United States population. Multiple clinical trials have demonstrated that several new agents were highly effective at prolonging survival.
These treatments belong to two different groups of medications: those targeting the biological pathway activated by mutation in the BRAF oncogene, which occurs in just under 50% of metastatic melanomas; and those targeting the immune system, called checkpoint inhibitors. These drugs prevent melanomas from suppressing the immune response to the tumors. Ten treatments were approved beginning in 2011, including six treatments between 2011 and 2014. We examined mortality rates between 1986 and 2016, prior to and after FDA approval of these agents.
Addiction, Author Interviews, Cannabis / 25.03.2020
Animal Study Finds Vaporized Cannabis Can Enhance Drug Seeking Behavior
MedicalResearch.com Interview with:
Ryan J. McLaughlin, PhD
Assistant Professor
Department of Integrative Physiology & Neuroscience
College of Veterinary Medicine
Washington State University, Pullman, WA
MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study?
Response: The evolving legal landscape concerning the use of cannabis has increased urgency to better understand its effects on the brain and behavior. Animal models are advantageous in this respect; however, researchers traditionally use forced injections of synthetic cannabinoids which fails to capture the complex effects of volitional cannabis consumption.
In our study, we developed a novel model of cannabis self-administration using response-contingent delivery of vaporized cannabis extracts containing high concentrations of Δ9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) or cannabidiol (CBD).
Ryan J. McLaughlin, PhD
Assistant Professor
Department of Integrative Physiology & Neuroscience
College of Veterinary Medicine
Washington State University, Pullman, WA
MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study?
Response: The evolving legal landscape concerning the use of cannabis has increased urgency to better understand its effects on the brain and behavior. Animal models are advantageous in this respect; however, researchers traditionally use forced injections of synthetic cannabinoids which fails to capture the complex effects of volitional cannabis consumption.
In our study, we developed a novel model of cannabis self-administration using response-contingent delivery of vaporized cannabis extracts containing high concentrations of Δ9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) or cannabidiol (CBD).
Author Interviews, Genetic Research, Nature, Prostate Cancer, Vanderbilt / 24.03.2020
Genetic Variations Altering Familial Risk of Prostate Cancer Identified
MedicalResearch.com Interview with:
[caption id="attachment_53622" align="alignleft" width="125"]
Dr. Jeffrey Smith[/caption]
Jeffrey R. Smith, MD PhD
Department of Medicine, Division of Genetic Medicine
Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center, and Vanderbilt Genetics Institute
Vanderbilt University Medical Center
Medical Research Service
Tennessee Valley Healthcare System, Veterans Administration
Nashville, TN
MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study?
Response: Roughly 20% of men with prostate cancer have a family history of the disease, and 5% meet criteria for hereditary prostate cancer. Although prostate cancer has the greatest heritability of all common cancers (twice that of breast cancer), extensive heterogeneity of its inherited causes has presented a considerable obstacle for traditional pedigree-based genetic investigative approaches. Inherited causes across, as well as within families are diverse.
This study introduced a new familial case-control study design that uses extent of family history as a proxy for genetic burden. It compared a large number of men with prostate cancer, each from a separate family with a strong history of the disease, to screened men with no personal or family history. The study comprehensively deconstructs how the 8q24 chromosomal region impacts risk of hereditary prostate cancer, introducing several new analytical approaches. The locus had been known to alter risk of prostate, breast, colon, ovarian, and numerous additional cancers.
Dr. Jeffrey Smith[/caption]
Jeffrey R. Smith, MD PhD
Department of Medicine, Division of Genetic Medicine
Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center, and Vanderbilt Genetics Institute
Vanderbilt University Medical Center
Medical Research Service
Tennessee Valley Healthcare System, Veterans Administration
Nashville, TN
MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study?
Response: Roughly 20% of men with prostate cancer have a family history of the disease, and 5% meet criteria for hereditary prostate cancer. Although prostate cancer has the greatest heritability of all common cancers (twice that of breast cancer), extensive heterogeneity of its inherited causes has presented a considerable obstacle for traditional pedigree-based genetic investigative approaches. Inherited causes across, as well as within families are diverse.
This study introduced a new familial case-control study design that uses extent of family history as a proxy for genetic burden. It compared a large number of men with prostate cancer, each from a separate family with a strong history of the disease, to screened men with no personal or family history. The study comprehensively deconstructs how the 8q24 chromosomal region impacts risk of hereditary prostate cancer, introducing several new analytical approaches. The locus had been known to alter risk of prostate, breast, colon, ovarian, and numerous additional cancers.
Author Interviews, Erectile Dysfunction, JAMA, Karolinski Institute / 23.03.2020
Strong Placebo Effects in ED Drug Trials
MedicalResearch.com Interview with:
Alexander Stridh, MSc
Department of Clinical Neuroscience
Karolinska Institute
Solna, Sweden
MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? What are the main findings?
Response: We wanted to investigate how large the effect size is in the placebo arm of clinical trials with PDE5Is for erectile dysfunction.
The major findings in this study is that there is a placebo response in general in ED, though it is hard to tell if this is a genuine placebo effect rather than normal fluctuations in symptom severity among patients.
Another interesting finding was that the placebo response seems largely more important when the cause of ED is mainly due to psychogenic factors, as in post traumatic stress disorder.
Lastly there was an important finding that there was no difference between placebo and active drug with daily treatment of PDE5Is for long term recovery of erectile function after prostate cancer treatment, a practice which is common in some places and seems to be questionable.
Allergies, Asthma, Author Interviews, ENT / 23.03.2020
Sinusitis With Nasal Polyps: Dupilumab Treatment Improves Sense of Smell
MedicalResearch.com Interview with:
[caption id="attachment_53614" align="alignleft" width="160"]
Dr. Han[/caption]
Joseph Han, MD FARS, FAAOA FAAAAI
Medical Director for the Division of Allergy
Eastern Virginia Medical School
MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study?
Response: Chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) is a type 2 inflammatory disease of the nasal passages and sinuses associated with a high symptom burden due to the chronic, relapsing nature of the disease. If you ask CRSwNP patients about the most important disease symptoms, they would say nasal congestion and decrease in smell. However, many CRSwNP patients would say that losing their sense of smell is particularly troublesome.
This study was conducted to better understand the effect of dupilumab, which is approved in the U.S. for adults with uncontrolled CRSwNP, on sense of smell.
Dr. Han[/caption]
Joseph Han, MD FARS, FAAOA FAAAAI
Medical Director for the Division of Allergy
Eastern Virginia Medical School
MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study?
Response: Chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) is a type 2 inflammatory disease of the nasal passages and sinuses associated with a high symptom burden due to the chronic, relapsing nature of the disease. If you ask CRSwNP patients about the most important disease symptoms, they would say nasal congestion and decrease in smell. However, many CRSwNP patients would say that losing their sense of smell is particularly troublesome.
This study was conducted to better understand the effect of dupilumab, which is approved in the U.S. for adults with uncontrolled CRSwNP, on sense of smell.
Author Interviews, JAMA, Opiods, Pediatrics / 23.03.2020
Cognitive Outcomes of Prenatal Exposure to Opioid Use Disorder Medications
MedicalResearch.com Interview with:
[caption id="attachment_53548" align="alignleft" width="133"] Dr. Nelson[/caption]
Leah Nelson, MD MS
Addiction Medicine Fellow
University of New Mexico
MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study?
Response: With the progression of the opioid epidemic over the past decade, more women of reproductive age are seeking treatment for addiction. Many more pregnant women are prescribed methadone and buprenorphine, two opioid medications that prevent relapse and overdose. Maternal use of mediations for opioid use disorder is recommended because it lowers the risk to the fetus from uncontrolled drug use and also allows the mother to engage with prenatal care and social work. Subsequently, the number of infants born after prenatal exposure to opioids is increasing.
Several previous studies have shown measurable differences in the cognitive scores of children after prenatal opioid exposure. However, much of the previous work was done on convenience samples (easy to recruit rather than rigorously matched for comparability) and the demographic characteristics of both mothers and children in the exposed and unexposed groups varied widely on important factors such as maternal education, socioeconomics, employment, tobacco use, and infant gender. Each of these factors has been demonstrated to impact early childhood development in the absence of opioid exposure.
Dr. Nelson[/caption]
Leah Nelson, MD MS
Addiction Medicine Fellow
University of New Mexico
MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study?
Response: With the progression of the opioid epidemic over the past decade, more women of reproductive age are seeking treatment for addiction. Many more pregnant women are prescribed methadone and buprenorphine, two opioid medications that prevent relapse and overdose. Maternal use of mediations for opioid use disorder is recommended because it lowers the risk to the fetus from uncontrolled drug use and also allows the mother to engage with prenatal care and social work. Subsequently, the number of infants born after prenatal exposure to opioids is increasing.
Several previous studies have shown measurable differences in the cognitive scores of children after prenatal opioid exposure. However, much of the previous work was done on convenience samples (easy to recruit rather than rigorously matched for comparability) and the demographic characteristics of both mothers and children in the exposed and unexposed groups varied widely on important factors such as maternal education, socioeconomics, employment, tobacco use, and infant gender. Each of these factors has been demonstrated to impact early childhood development in the absence of opioid exposure.
Author Interviews, Orthopedics, Surgical Research / 23.03.2020
Complication Rates Vary Between Hip Surgery Approaches
MedicalResearch.com Interview with:
[caption id="attachment_53608" align="alignleft" width="200"] Dr. Pincus[/caption]
Pincus MD PhD
Division of Orthopaedic Surgery, Department of Surgery
University of Toronto
Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Division of Orthopaedic Surgery
ICES, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study?
Response: Controversy exists among arthroplasty surgeons and patients about the best surgical approach for total hip arthroplasty (THA) - one of the most common operations performed worldwide. In the last few years, the direct anterior approach has become increasingly popular compared to posterior and lateral approaches, partially as a result of advertising to patients. We sought to determine whether a direct anterior surgical approach was associated with lower surgical complications compared to lateral and posterior approaches.
Dr. Pincus[/caption]
Pincus MD PhD
Division of Orthopaedic Surgery, Department of Surgery
University of Toronto
Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Division of Orthopaedic Surgery
ICES, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study?
Response: Controversy exists among arthroplasty surgeons and patients about the best surgical approach for total hip arthroplasty (THA) - one of the most common operations performed worldwide. In the last few years, the direct anterior approach has become increasingly popular compared to posterior and lateral approaches, partially as a result of advertising to patients. We sought to determine whether a direct anterior surgical approach was associated with lower surgical complications compared to lateral and posterior approaches.
Author Interviews, HIV, NEJM / 20.03.2020
Maintenance of HIV-1 Suppression Using Long-Acting Cabotegravir and Rilpivirine
MedicalResearch.com Interview with:
[caption id="attachment_53605" align="alignleft" width="200"] Susan Swindells[/caption]
Susan Swindells MBBS
Professor, Infectious Diseases
Department of Internal Medicine
University of Nebraska Medical Center
Omaha, NE
MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study?
Response: The background for this study is the development of long-acting injectable formulations of two antiretroviral agents: cabotegravir and rilpivirine. These were previously tested in a Phase 2 study, and the current study (called ATLAS) reports findings from Phase 3 in which HIV-infected patients on antiretroviral therapy were switched to monthly injections.
The partner study, (FLAIR), is published in the same addition of the journal, and reports results from patients that were new to antiretroviral therapy, and took oral medications as a lead-in to achieve viral suppression before switching to similar monthly injections. Both studies included randomization to continuing oral antiretroviral therapy.
Susan Swindells[/caption]
Susan Swindells MBBS
Professor, Infectious Diseases
Department of Internal Medicine
University of Nebraska Medical Center
Omaha, NE
MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study?
Response: The background for this study is the development of long-acting injectable formulations of two antiretroviral agents: cabotegravir and rilpivirine. These were previously tested in a Phase 2 study, and the current study (called ATLAS) reports findings from Phase 3 in which HIV-infected patients on antiretroviral therapy were switched to monthly injections.
The partner study, (FLAIR), is published in the same addition of the journal, and reports results from patients that were new to antiretroviral therapy, and took oral medications as a lead-in to achieve viral suppression before switching to similar monthly injections. Both studies included randomization to continuing oral antiretroviral therapy.
Allergies, Author Interviews, Dermatology / 20.03.2020
Atopic Dermatitis: Dupilumab Can Rapidly Improve Itch in Moderate to Severe Eczema
MedicalResearch.com Interview with:
[caption id="attachment_53601" align="alignleft" width="144"] Dr. Yosipovitch[/caption]
Gil Yosipovitch, MD, Professor
Miami Itch Center
Lennar Medical Foundation
South Miami Clinic in Coral Gables
University of Miami Health System
MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? How does Dupilumab (Dupixent) differ from other medications for atopic dermatitis/eczema?
Response: Atopic dermatitis (AD) is characterized by intense itch (pruritus) that is one of the most burdensome symptoms; therefore, rapid and sustained improvement in itch is an important marker of treatment benefit. Dupixent® (dupilumab) is approved in the U.S. for adults and adolescents with inadequately-controlled moderate-to-severe Atopic Dermatitis.
Dupilumab remains the first and only biologic medicine for uncontrolled moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis. Dupilumab is the first and only fully human monoclonal antibody that inhibits the signaling of the interleukin-4 (IL-4) and interleukin-13 (IL-13) proteins. Data from dupilumab clinical trials have shown that IL-4 and IL-13 are key drivers of the type 2 inflammation that plays a major role in atopic dermatitis, asthma and chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps.
Dr. Yosipovitch[/caption]
Gil Yosipovitch, MD, Professor
Miami Itch Center
Lennar Medical Foundation
South Miami Clinic in Coral Gables
University of Miami Health System
MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? How does Dupilumab (Dupixent) differ from other medications for atopic dermatitis/eczema?
Response: Atopic dermatitis (AD) is characterized by intense itch (pruritus) that is one of the most burdensome symptoms; therefore, rapid and sustained improvement in itch is an important marker of treatment benefit. Dupixent® (dupilumab) is approved in the U.S. for adults and adolescents with inadequately-controlled moderate-to-severe Atopic Dermatitis.
Dupilumab remains the first and only biologic medicine for uncontrolled moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis. Dupilumab is the first and only fully human monoclonal antibody that inhibits the signaling of the interleukin-4 (IL-4) and interleukin-13 (IL-13) proteins. Data from dupilumab clinical trials have shown that IL-4 and IL-13 are key drivers of the type 2 inflammation that plays a major role in atopic dermatitis, asthma and chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps.
Author Interviews, Cost of Health Care, Electronic Records / 20.03.2020
Best Practice Alerts from Electronic Records Can Reduce Redundant Lab Testing
MedicalResearch.com Interview with:
[caption id="attachment_53592" align="alignleft" width="200"]
Dr. Bishnoi[/caption]
Rohit Bishnoi, M.D.
Division of Hematology and Oncology
Department of Medicine
University of Florida
Gainesville, FL
MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study?
Response: National Healthcare expenditure was $3.6 trillion in 2018 and 17.7% of Gross Domestic Product. Redundant laboratory testing is one part of this problem that is more pronounced in hospitalized patients as they are often seen by multiple physicians from the time of admission till discharge. This added burden on the US health care system leads to increased costs, decreased patient satisfaction, and unnecessary phlebotomy. It also leads to iatrogenic anemia over time and unnecessary transfusions. The Choosing Wisely initiative recommendation from the Society of Hospital Medicine, Society for the Advancement of Blood Management, and the Critical Care Societies Collaborative have recommended avoiding repetitive labs.
As one of the physicians in the division of hospital medicine at the University of Florida (UF) Health Shands hospital, we encountered this problem frequently where a patient will get multiple HbA1c or lipid profiles or iron studies during the same hospital stay without any clear clinical indication. Most often these tests were ordered by different physicians seeing the same patient and not realizing that either the test has already been ordered or sometimes it is related to practice pattern of physicians. We often heard complaints about this from our nursing and laboratory staff and, most importantly by patients themselves.
Dr. Bishnoi[/caption]
Rohit Bishnoi, M.D.
Division of Hematology and Oncology
Department of Medicine
University of Florida
Gainesville, FL
MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study?
Response: National Healthcare expenditure was $3.6 trillion in 2018 and 17.7% of Gross Domestic Product. Redundant laboratory testing is one part of this problem that is more pronounced in hospitalized patients as they are often seen by multiple physicians from the time of admission till discharge. This added burden on the US health care system leads to increased costs, decreased patient satisfaction, and unnecessary phlebotomy. It also leads to iatrogenic anemia over time and unnecessary transfusions. The Choosing Wisely initiative recommendation from the Society of Hospital Medicine, Society for the Advancement of Blood Management, and the Critical Care Societies Collaborative have recommended avoiding repetitive labs.
As one of the physicians in the division of hospital medicine at the University of Florida (UF) Health Shands hospital, we encountered this problem frequently where a patient will get multiple HbA1c or lipid profiles or iron studies during the same hospital stay without any clear clinical indication. Most often these tests were ordered by different physicians seeing the same patient and not realizing that either the test has already been ordered or sometimes it is related to practice pattern of physicians. We often heard complaints about this from our nursing and laboratory staff and, most importantly by patients themselves.
Addiction, Author Interviews, JAMA, Mental Health Research / 20.03.2020
Meth Addiction: Using Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation To Reduce Impulsive Behavior
MedicalResearch.com Interview with:
[caption id="attachment_53588" align="alignleft" width="158"]
Dr. Jiajin Yuan[/caption]
Jiajin Yuan, Ph.D
Professor of Psychology
Director, The Laboratory for Affect Cognition and Regulation,
Faculty of Psychology, Southwest University,
Chongqing, China
MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study?
Response: Impulsivity is a critical symptom of methamphetamine addiction, and this symptom plays an important role in compulsive, unresistable drug-seeking behavioral and is thus detrimental to the rehabilitation. Impulsivity in drug addiction also contributes to disruption of people's goal pursuit/goal maintenance, and aggressive/violent behaviors after drug use. Also, lack of suitable intervention for addiction-related impulsivity is known to be a risky factor for the drug reuse after successful rehabilitation.
Thus, rehabilitaton targeted at impulsivity in methamphetamine addicts is important to comprehensive rehabilitation of the drug addiction and also to successful return to social life after rehabilitation
Dr. Jiajin Yuan[/caption]
Jiajin Yuan, Ph.D
Professor of Psychology
Director, The Laboratory for Affect Cognition and Regulation,
Faculty of Psychology, Southwest University,
Chongqing, China
MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study?
Response: Impulsivity is a critical symptom of methamphetamine addiction, and this symptom plays an important role in compulsive, unresistable drug-seeking behavioral and is thus detrimental to the rehabilitation. Impulsivity in drug addiction also contributes to disruption of people's goal pursuit/goal maintenance, and aggressive/violent behaviors after drug use. Also, lack of suitable intervention for addiction-related impulsivity is known to be a risky factor for the drug reuse after successful rehabilitation.
Thus, rehabilitaton targeted at impulsivity in methamphetamine addicts is important to comprehensive rehabilitation of the drug addiction and also to successful return to social life after rehabilitation
Author Interviews, Bristol Myers Squibb, Cancer Research, Pharmaceutical Companies / 19.03.2020
Compugen and BMS Launch New Triple Combination Therapy for Advanced Tumors
MedicalResearch.com Interview with:
Anat Cohen-Dayag, Ph.D.
President and CEO
Compugen
MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this announcement? Would you discuss Compugen’s underlying cancer hypothesis regarding the targeting of multiple checkpoint pathways to enhance tumor response?
Response: Cancer immunotherapy has revolutionized the landscape for cancer treatments by providing new drug options leading to lasting benefits for patients. Yet, response rates vary greatly across different cancer indications, leaving a significant unmet medical need for many patients and a continuing challenge to discover new biological pathways that can serve for the development of new cancer immunotherapies for non-responsive and refractory patients.
Using a computational approach which is designed to discover new biological pathways and drug targets, we identified PVRIG as a novel immune checkpoint and a newly discovered inhibitory pathway in the DNAM axis. Our hypothesis is that PVRIG and TIGIT (another inhibitory pathway discovered by us and others) are two parallel and complementary inhibitory pathways in the DNAM axis and that in certain tumor types and patient populations, there may be a need to block both PVRIG and TIGIT in order to enhance anti-tumor immune responses. Moreover, reported molecular intersections between the DNAM axis and the PD-1 pathway, the most prevalent pathway targeted by approved immunotherapies, suggest that there is a linkage between these three pathways. As such, our PVRIG inhibitor may work in synergy with PD-1 and TIGIT inhibitors, suggesting that various drug combinations may be required to address these three pathways based on their dominance in different cancer patients and cancer indications. With this recently announced Phase 1/2 triple combination study, we will be directly testing our hypothesis of an intersection between the three parallel immune checkpoint pathways – PVRIG, TIGIT and PD-1 – and that the simultaneous blockade of these pathways has the potential to synergistically enhance anti-tumor immune response and expand the reach of cancer immunotherapy to patients non-responsive or refractory to approved immunotherapies.
Anat Cohen-Dayag, Ph.D.
President and CEO
Compugen
MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this announcement? Would you discuss Compugen’s underlying cancer hypothesis regarding the targeting of multiple checkpoint pathways to enhance tumor response?
Response: Cancer immunotherapy has revolutionized the landscape for cancer treatments by providing new drug options leading to lasting benefits for patients. Yet, response rates vary greatly across different cancer indications, leaving a significant unmet medical need for many patients and a continuing challenge to discover new biological pathways that can serve for the development of new cancer immunotherapies for non-responsive and refractory patients.
Using a computational approach which is designed to discover new biological pathways and drug targets, we identified PVRIG as a novel immune checkpoint and a newly discovered inhibitory pathway in the DNAM axis. Our hypothesis is that PVRIG and TIGIT (another inhibitory pathway discovered by us and others) are two parallel and complementary inhibitory pathways in the DNAM axis and that in certain tumor types and patient populations, there may be a need to block both PVRIG and TIGIT in order to enhance anti-tumor immune responses. Moreover, reported molecular intersections between the DNAM axis and the PD-1 pathway, the most prevalent pathway targeted by approved immunotherapies, suggest that there is a linkage between these three pathways. As such, our PVRIG inhibitor may work in synergy with PD-1 and TIGIT inhibitors, suggesting that various drug combinations may be required to address these three pathways based on their dominance in different cancer patients and cancer indications. With this recently announced Phase 1/2 triple combination study, we will be directly testing our hypothesis of an intersection between the three parallel immune checkpoint pathways – PVRIG, TIGIT and PD-1 – and that the simultaneous blockade of these pathways has the potential to synergistically enhance anti-tumor immune response and expand the reach of cancer immunotherapy to patients non-responsive or refractory to approved immunotherapies.
Annals Internal Medicine, Author Interviews, Cannabis, Yale / 19.03.2020
Cannabidiol: Conflicts of Interest Among Authors of Published CBD Articles
MedicalResearch.com Interview with:
[caption id="attachment_53477" align="alignleft" width="200"] Dr. Wallach[/caption]
Joshua D. Wallach, MS, PhD
Assistant Professor of Epidemiology (Environmental Health Sciences)
Yale School of Public Health
New Haven, CT
MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study?
Response: Over the past few years, there has been growing interest in the potential health benefits of cannabidiol (CBD), a chemical compound in cannabis. Although only one CBD-derived prescription drug has been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of epilepsy, I recently started seeing products containing CBD advertised and sold across the US (e.g. CBD in foods, beverages, dietary supplements, and cosmetics). I noticed that many of these products were being marketed with unproven claims to prevent, cure, and treat various conditions, and became interested in learning more about the research supporting the use of CBD, the potential for misleading claims, and impact that the CBD-industry may be having on research that is being generated and disseminated to the public.
Research funding sources and other author conflicts of interests (e.g. consulting fees, honoraria, travel expenses) can influence the way that research is designed, conducted, and reported. Previous studies have consistently demonstrated associations between authors' conflicts of interest and proindustry conclusions in clinical research.
Given the growing number of companies invested in CBD's commercial success, we decided to analyze the disclosed funding sources, conflicts of interest statements, author employment details, and CBD-related conclusions in a large sample of published articles on the characteristics, use, and therapeutic effects of cannabidiol.
Dr. Wallach[/caption]
Joshua D. Wallach, MS, PhD
Assistant Professor of Epidemiology (Environmental Health Sciences)
Yale School of Public Health
New Haven, CT
MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study?
Response: Over the past few years, there has been growing interest in the potential health benefits of cannabidiol (CBD), a chemical compound in cannabis. Although only one CBD-derived prescription drug has been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of epilepsy, I recently started seeing products containing CBD advertised and sold across the US (e.g. CBD in foods, beverages, dietary supplements, and cosmetics). I noticed that many of these products were being marketed with unproven claims to prevent, cure, and treat various conditions, and became interested in learning more about the research supporting the use of CBD, the potential for misleading claims, and impact that the CBD-industry may be having on research that is being generated and disseminated to the public.
Research funding sources and other author conflicts of interests (e.g. consulting fees, honoraria, travel expenses) can influence the way that research is designed, conducted, and reported. Previous studies have consistently demonstrated associations between authors' conflicts of interest and proindustry conclusions in clinical research.
Given the growing number of companies invested in CBD's commercial success, we decided to analyze the disclosed funding sources, conflicts of interest statements, author employment details, and CBD-related conclusions in a large sample of published articles on the characteristics, use, and therapeutic effects of cannabidiol.
Author Interviews, Dental Research, JAMA, Pain Research / 19.03.2020
Dental Work: Patient Satisfaction No Better With Opioids For Pain
MedicalResearch.com Interview with:
[caption id="attachment_53575" align="alignleft" width="142"]
Dr. Nalliah[/caption]
Dr. Romesh P. Nalliah BDS, MHCM
Associate Dean for Patient Services
Clinical Professor
Institute for Healthcare Policy & Innovation
Michigan Institute for Data Science
Director, Synergy Program
MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study?
Response: We designed and conducted this study because there is a paucity of knowledge related to opioid prescribing for acute dental pain.
Dr. Nalliah[/caption]
Dr. Romesh P. Nalliah BDS, MHCM
Associate Dean for Patient Services
Clinical Professor
Institute for Healthcare Policy & Innovation
Michigan Institute for Data Science
Director, Synergy Program
MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study?
Response: We designed and conducted this study because there is a paucity of knowledge related to opioid prescribing for acute dental pain.
Author Interviews, Gender Differences, Heart Disease, Karolinski Institute, Opiods, PNAS / 18.03.2020
Main Cause of US Lifespan Stagnation Not Opioids
MedicalResearch.com Interview with:
[caption id="attachment_53563" align="alignleft" width="155"] Dr. Myrskylä[/caption]
Mikko Myrskylä PhD
Executive Director, Max Planck Institute for Demographic Research
Professorial Research Fellow,
London School of Economics Professor of Social Statistics
University of Helsinki
MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study?
Response: Life expectancy in the U.S. increased at a phenomenal pace throughout the twentieth century, by nearly two years per decade. After 2010, however, U.S. life expectancy growth stalled and has most recently been declining. A critical question for American health policy is how to return U.S. life expectancy to its pre-2010 growth rate. Researchers and policy makers have focused on rising drug-related deaths in their search for the explanations for the stalling and declining life expectancy.
Dr. Myrskylä[/caption]
Mikko Myrskylä PhD
Executive Director, Max Planck Institute for Demographic Research
Professorial Research Fellow,
London School of Economics Professor of Social Statistics
University of Helsinki
MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study?
Response: Life expectancy in the U.S. increased at a phenomenal pace throughout the twentieth century, by nearly two years per decade. After 2010, however, U.S. life expectancy growth stalled and has most recently been declining. A critical question for American health policy is how to return U.S. life expectancy to its pre-2010 growth rate. Researchers and policy makers have focused on rising drug-related deaths in their search for the explanations for the stalling and declining life expectancy.
Author Interviews, Cancer Research, Environmental Risks, Lung Cancer, Occupational Health / 18.03.2020
Mesothelioma and Repeated Cosmetic Talc Exposure
MedicalResearch.com Interview with:
[caption id="attachment_53559" align="alignleft" width="200"] Dr. Emory[/caption]
Theresa S. Emory MD
Department of Pathology, Peninsula Pathology Associates
Newport News, VA
MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? What are the main findings?
Response: Cosmetic talc products can contain asbestos, which is the primary cause of malignant mesothelioma. We investigated 75 individuals with malignant mesothelioma, whose only known exposure to asbestos was repeated exposures to cosmetic talcum powder. 83% of the individuals were female and several occurred in barbers/cosmetologists. 16% occurred in individuals younger than 45 years old, and on average the subjects were 11 years younger than predicted, based on SEER data. The asbestos fibers in tissue samples that were examined in 11 cases were identical (anthophyllite and tremolite) to those identified in cosmetic talc.
Dr. Emory[/caption]
Theresa S. Emory MD
Department of Pathology, Peninsula Pathology Associates
Newport News, VA
MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? What are the main findings?
Response: Cosmetic talc products can contain asbestos, which is the primary cause of malignant mesothelioma. We investigated 75 individuals with malignant mesothelioma, whose only known exposure to asbestos was repeated exposures to cosmetic talcum powder. 83% of the individuals were female and several occurred in barbers/cosmetologists. 16% occurred in individuals younger than 45 years old, and on average the subjects were 11 years younger than predicted, based on SEER data. The asbestos fibers in tissue samples that were examined in 11 cases were identical (anthophyllite and tremolite) to those identified in cosmetic talc.
Author Interviews, Dermatology, Pediatrics / 18.03.2020
Atopic Dermatitis – Eczema: Food Restrictions May Limit Pediatric Growth
MedicalResearch.com Interview with:
[caption id="attachment_53554" align="alignleft" width="150"]
Adawiyah Jami[/caption]
Adawiyah Jamil, AdvMDerm
Associate Professor at Department of Medicine
University Kebangsaan Malaysia Medical Center
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study?
Response: We commonly observed poor dietary pattern and multiple food restrictions imposed on atopic dermatitis (AD) children by their parents in our daily clinical practice. Food allergy is often associated with AD, however excessive and medically unsubstantiated restriction may lead to various health issues. AD is a chronic skin disease, like any other chronic diseases it affects an individual’s general health. Growth and development are key measures of health in children. We embarked on this study as we were very worried of the consequences of medically unsupervised food restriction, especially those with severe disease. We were concerned about how our atopic dermatitis children are eating and how to help them.
Adawiyah Jami[/caption]
Adawiyah Jamil, AdvMDerm
Associate Professor at Department of Medicine
University Kebangsaan Malaysia Medical Center
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study?
Response: We commonly observed poor dietary pattern and multiple food restrictions imposed on atopic dermatitis (AD) children by their parents in our daily clinical practice. Food allergy is often associated with AD, however excessive and medically unsubstantiated restriction may lead to various health issues. AD is a chronic skin disease, like any other chronic diseases it affects an individual’s general health. Growth and development are key measures of health in children. We embarked on this study as we were very worried of the consequences of medically unsupervised food restriction, especially those with severe disease. We were concerned about how our atopic dermatitis children are eating and how to help them.
Author Interviews, Gastrointestinal Disease, JAMA, Orthopedics, Pediatrics / 17.03.2020
Proton-Pump Inhibitors: Small Increased Risk of Fractures in Children
[caption id="attachment_53500" align="alignleft" width="150"] Yun-Han Wang[/caption]
MedicalResearch.com Interview with:
Yun-Han Wang, PhD Student
Karolinska Institute
MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study?
Response: Proton pump inhibitor (PPI) use has been linked to increased risk of fracture in adults. Despite an increasing trend in prescription of PPIs in children, there is scarce evidence regarding this safety concern in pediatric patients.
Yun-Han Wang[/caption]
MedicalResearch.com Interview with:
Yun-Han Wang, PhD Student
Karolinska Institute
MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study?
Response: Proton pump inhibitor (PPI) use has been linked to increased risk of fracture in adults. Despite an increasing trend in prescription of PPIs in children, there is scarce evidence regarding this safety concern in pediatric patients.
Author Interviews, COVID -19 Coronavirus, Pharmaceutical Companies, Vaccine Studies / 17.03.2020
Plant-Based Coronavirus Vaccine Candidate Developed by Medicago
MedicalResearch.com Interview with:
[caption id="attachment_53541" align="alignleft" width="180"] Dr. Machelska[/caption]
Nathalie Charland PhD
Senior Director, Scientific and Medical Affairs
Medicago
MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? What are the main findings?
Response: We started to work on solutions as soon as we were able to obtain the appropriate genetic information for the new COVID-19. Medicago is committed to advancing therapeutics against life-threatening diseases worldwide.
Dr. Machelska[/caption]
Nathalie Charland PhD
Senior Director, Scientific and Medical Affairs
Medicago
MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? What are the main findings?
Response: We started to work on solutions as soon as we were able to obtain the appropriate genetic information for the new COVID-19. Medicago is committed to advancing therapeutics against life-threatening diseases worldwide.
Author Interviews, Opiods / 17.03.2020
Increased Distribution, but Pronounced Regional Variation, in US Buprenorphine Use
MedicalResearch.com Interview with:
[caption id="attachment_53537" align="alignleft" width="200"] Amir Pashmineh[/caption]
Amir Pashmineh, MBS
Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine
MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study?
Response: The opioid buprenorphine is a mu and nociceptin receptor partial agonist, and serves as an antagonist to kappa and delta receptors. These properties contribute to this medication being a first-line evidence-based agent in Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) treatment. There have been policy changes intended to increase buprenorphine (which goes by brand names Suboxone or Subutex) availability, but access remains below optimal levels. Relative to methadone, buprenorphine is more expensive. The “abstinence only” mentality of 12-step programs for addiction treatment continues to be influential.
The objective of this study was to extend our pharmacoepidemiology knowledge regarding utilization and characterize the regional disparity in distribution in the U.S. over the last decade. Data was obtained from Drug Enforcement Administration’s Automated Reports and Consolidated Ordering System (ARCOS), a comprehensive drug reporting system of controlled substances from their point of manufacturing to point of sale and distribution.
Amir Pashmineh[/caption]
Amir Pashmineh, MBS
Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine
MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study?
Response: The opioid buprenorphine is a mu and nociceptin receptor partial agonist, and serves as an antagonist to kappa and delta receptors. These properties contribute to this medication being a first-line evidence-based agent in Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) treatment. There have been policy changes intended to increase buprenorphine (which goes by brand names Suboxone or Subutex) availability, but access remains below optimal levels. Relative to methadone, buprenorphine is more expensive. The “abstinence only” mentality of 12-step programs for addiction treatment continues to be influential.
The objective of this study was to extend our pharmacoepidemiology knowledge regarding utilization and characterize the regional disparity in distribution in the U.S. over the last decade. Data was obtained from Drug Enforcement Administration’s Automated Reports and Consolidated Ordering System (ARCOS), a comprehensive drug reporting system of controlled substances from their point of manufacturing to point of sale and distribution.
MedicalResearch.com Interview with:
[caption id="attachment_24691" align="alignleft" width="115"] Dr. Sibaji Sarkar[/caption]
Sibaji Sarkar, Ph.D.
Adj. Professor
Quincy College, Quincy, Boston MA
MBC College, Wellesley MA
RC College, Boston, MA
MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study?
Response: COVID-19 infection is spreading and nothing is out there now to stop it. Hopefully, vaccines will be made and will be useful but that may take months if not a year. Researchers are also testing the use of other anti-viral drugs. COVID-19 uses (angiotensin converting enzyme receptor 2) ACE2 on capillary membranes of lungs to attach and then enter by endocytosis. ACE and ACE2 are two different types of receptors. ACE inhibitors are regularly in use as blood pressure lowering drugs. Unfortunately, ACE inhibitors have very les affinity for ACE2. Theoretically, if COVID-19 and any ACE2 inhibitor share similar binding site on ACE2 or at least bind in close proximity, assuming the virus is a big particle, it should fully or partially block viral entry. That will reduce or delay disease progression.
Dr. Sibaji Sarkar[/caption]
Sibaji Sarkar, Ph.D.
Adj. Professor
Quincy College, Quincy, Boston MA
MBC College, Wellesley MA
RC College, Boston, MA
MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study?
Response: COVID-19 infection is spreading and nothing is out there now to stop it. Hopefully, vaccines will be made and will be useful but that may take months if not a year. Researchers are also testing the use of other anti-viral drugs. COVID-19 uses (angiotensin converting enzyme receptor 2) ACE2 on capillary membranes of lungs to attach and then enter by endocytosis. ACE and ACE2 are two different types of receptors. ACE inhibitors are regularly in use as blood pressure lowering drugs. Unfortunately, ACE inhibitors have very les affinity for ACE2. Theoretically, if COVID-19 and any ACE2 inhibitor share similar binding site on ACE2 or at least bind in close proximity, assuming the virus is a big particle, it should fully or partially block viral entry. That will reduce or delay disease progression.
Author Interviews, JAMA, Pediatrics, Weight Research / 16.03.2020
Local Obesity Rates May Normalize Unhealthy Weight in Teens
MedicalResearch.com Interview with:
[caption id="attachment_53491" align="alignleft" width="200"] Dr. Datar[/caption]
Ashlesha Datar, PhD
Senior Economist
Director of Program on Children & Families
USC Dornsife Center for Economic and Social Research (CESR)
University of Southern California
MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study?
Response: Prior research, including our own work, has suggested that there might be some kind of social contagion or social transmission in obesity. So we wanted to explore that avenue further. In the present study, we showed teens in military families a set of human body figures with varying body sizes and asked them to choose the figure that best captured their ideal body size.
Dr. Datar[/caption]
Ashlesha Datar, PhD
Senior Economist
Director of Program on Children & Families
USC Dornsife Center for Economic and Social Research (CESR)
University of Southern California
MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study?
Response: Prior research, including our own work, has suggested that there might be some kind of social contagion or social transmission in obesity. So we wanted to explore that avenue further. In the present study, we showed teens in military families a set of human body figures with varying body sizes and asked them to choose the figure that best captured their ideal body size.
Author Interviews, COVID -19 Coronavirus, Vaccine Studies / 13.03.2020
COVID-19: Research and Development on Therapeutic Agents and Vaccines
MedicalResearch.com Interview with:
Cynthia Liu, Ph.D.
Manager, Scientific Information
CAS, a division of the American Chemical Society
Columbus, OH 43210
MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study?
Response: The outbreak of COVID-19 caused by the new virus SARS-CoV-2 has overwhelmed the health systems in many countries and been declared by WHO as a pandemic which will continue to affect global public health and world economy. This threat calls for an intensified effort in the development of therapeutic agents and vaccines. CAS is a not-for-profit division of the American Chemical Society that specializes in scientific information solutions. Our team includes hundreds of scientists that build a global data collection of curated scientific content from both journal articles and patent applications as well as chemical and biological substance collections. With this report, our team hopes to support the efforts of R&D organizations seeking to address this crisis by providing an up-to-date overview of recent relevant publications and insight into potential therapeutic agents, including both small molecules and biologics.
Author Interviews, Columbia, Heart Disease, Mediterranean Diet, Women's Heart Health / 13.03.2020
Components of Mediterranean Diet Linked to Reduced Inflammatory Markers
MedicalResearch.com Interview with:
[caption id="attachment_53518" align="alignleft" width="177"] Dr. Shah[/caption]
Dr. Riddhi Shah, PhD
AHA SFRN Postdoctoral Research Fellow
Division of Cardiology
Columbia University Medical Center
New York, New York
MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study?
Response: The Mediterranean Diet, characterized by higher intakes of plant foods including plant proteins, monounsaturated fat, fish, and lower consumption of animal products and saturated fat, has long been associated with reduced cardiovascular risk and greater longevity, but the molecular mechanisms underlying these associations have not been fully elucidated.
We evaluated associations of an Alternate Mediterranean Diet Score, reflective of adherence to this diet pattern and adapted for US populations, and its components with markers of endothelial inflammation directly measured in endothelial cells harvested from women, including oxidative stress, nuclear factor kappa B (NFκB), and endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) gene expression.
Dr. Shah[/caption]
Dr. Riddhi Shah, PhD
AHA SFRN Postdoctoral Research Fellow
Division of Cardiology
Columbia University Medical Center
New York, New York
MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study?
Response: The Mediterranean Diet, characterized by higher intakes of plant foods including plant proteins, monounsaturated fat, fish, and lower consumption of animal products and saturated fat, has long been associated with reduced cardiovascular risk and greater longevity, but the molecular mechanisms underlying these associations have not been fully elucidated.
We evaluated associations of an Alternate Mediterranean Diet Score, reflective of adherence to this diet pattern and adapted for US populations, and its components with markers of endothelial inflammation directly measured in endothelial cells harvested from women, including oxidative stress, nuclear factor kappa B (NFκB), and endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) gene expression.
Author Interviews, COVID -19 Coronavirus, CT Scanning, Global Health, Medical Imaging / 13.03.2020
COVID-19 Likely to Involve Both lungs on Initial Chest Imaging
MedicalResearch.com Interview with:
[caption id="attachment_53511" align="alignleft" width="191"]
Dr. Kooraki[/caption]
Soheil Kooraki MSR MS, MD
on behalf of Dr. Ali Gholamrezanezhad MD and co-authors
Department of Radiological Sciences,
David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California at Los Angeles
Los Angeles, California
MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? What are the main findings?
Response: COVID19 is a novel strain of the coronavirus family causing pneumonia. Two similar strains were discovered in 2003 and 2012 to cause the so-called SARS and MERS outbreaks, respectively. Radiologists need to be prepared for the escalating incidence of COVID-19. We reviewed the literature to extract the epidemiologic and imaging features of SARS and MERS in comparison with known imaging features of COVID-19 pneumonia to have a better understanding of the imaging features of the COVID19 pneumonia in acute and post-recovery stages.
Dr. Kooraki[/caption]
Soheil Kooraki MSR MS, MD
on behalf of Dr. Ali Gholamrezanezhad MD and co-authors
Department of Radiological Sciences,
David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California at Los Angeles
Los Angeles, California
MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? What are the main findings?
Response: COVID19 is a novel strain of the coronavirus family causing pneumonia. Two similar strains were discovered in 2003 and 2012 to cause the so-called SARS and MERS outbreaks, respectively. Radiologists need to be prepared for the escalating incidence of COVID-19. We reviewed the literature to extract the epidemiologic and imaging features of SARS and MERS in comparison with known imaging features of COVID-19 pneumonia to have a better understanding of the imaging features of the COVID19 pneumonia in acute and post-recovery stages.